How to Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs

If you’ve been noticing bugs that are about half an inch long, with distinctive red and black markings on their backs, there’s a good chance they’re boxelder bugs. These bugs aren’t particularly dangerous or destructive, but they cause a lot of stress for homeowners and business owners. They also seem to be becoming much more common here in Oklahoma in recent years. Also known as “box beetles,” boxelder bugs are easily confused with stink bugs because they emit a pungent smell when crushed. So, how do you get rid of boxelder bugs? That’s a good question. Though they are relatively harmless, that doesn’t mean you want them hanging around your property. That’s why we’ve compiled these expert tips on getting rid of and preventing boxelder bugs.

Top 5 Tips For Getting Rid of Boxelder Bugs 

Though they may be harmless, there’s nothing fun about boxelders wandering around your home, but the good news is there are some things you can do to prevent them and get rid of them. Here are some tips on how to eliminate boxelder bugs – and get rid of them if they do make it inside:

1. Seal Entry Points: Boxelders nest within walls and siding as they prepare to overwinter. However, they may emerge sooner than expected due to your home’s heating system, mistaking the warmth it gives off for an early spring. That’s why it’s so crucial to make sure they don’t get inside in the first place.
2. Remove Debris: Clean up leaves, debris, or fallen fruits around the house, as these can serve as shelter or food for box bugs.
3. Repair Screens: These are another common way boxelder bugs find their way inside.
4. Vacuuming and Sweeping: See a cluster of them? Just sweep them up or use a vacuum cleaner. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum or trash bag promptly. 
5. Get Professional Help: If you can’t get ahead of the infestation or don’t want to deal with it, simply give our team a call! You may also want to consider PestFree365+, which can eliminate infestations before they happen.

Where Do You Find Boxelder Bugs?

Does it seem like you’ve been seeing more and more of these things every year? It’s not your imagination. Their population numbers tend to fluctuate in waves. 2011 was a notably bad year for boxelder bugs in our region and they are now on the upswing again.

Boxelder bugs (Boisea trivittata) are small insects that often gather in large numbers. Outdoors, they can often be found on trees, where they feed on seeds, leaves, and sap. They become a nuisance as temperatures cool. During the fall, boxelders will often enter homes through cracks or gaps in doors and windows. Seeking warmth, they congregate on the sunny sides of buildings, seeking warmth. Once they come inside, you may also start to notice individuals wandering around anywhere and everywhere.

Get Rid of Boxelder Bugs with Arrow Exterminators!

For persistent problems, you can rely on the trusted pros at Arrow Exterminators. We’re a local pest exterminator with over 43 years of experience serving our community with reliable, effective, eco-friendly pest solutions with the long-term results you expect. 

For a free quote, call us today!